Spanberger Sidesteps Transgender Policy Question in Virginia Race

Abigail Spanberger, the Democratic nominee for governor of Virginia, recently faced questions regarding her stance on transgender policies but opted not to provide a direct answer. Instead, she criticized the Trump administration’s interpretation of Title IX and shifted the focus to federal funding disputes. This exchange highlights the ongoing sensitivity surrounding transgender issues in Virginia’s political landscape, especially as the 2026 gubernatorial race approaches.

During an interview, Spanberger was asked about comments made by Republican Lieutenant Governor Winsome Earle-Sears, who accused her of being “fine with putting men in girls’ locker rooms.” Rather than addressing the accusation directly, Spanberger discussed federal funding concerns, indicating a reluctance to engage with the contentious topic head-on. This pattern has been evident throughout her campaign, as the issue of transgender rights has emerged as a significant flashpoint in Virginia politics.

Spanberger pointed to “conflicting evidence or conflicting interpretations” related to Title IX, which prohibits sex-based discrimination in education programs receiving federal funding. She criticized the Trump administration for its exclusion of “gender identity” from its interpretation of the law, stating, “The reality is that the federal government has the ability to change the letter of the law.” Her comments reflect a broader debate about how federal guidelines are applied at the local level, particularly in schools.

The Trump administration had previously investigated schools for allowing students to use bathrooms and participate in sports teams based on their gender identity rather than biological sex. Spanberger claimed that current federal guidance is unclear, which complicates compliance for schools across Virginia.

The political discourse surrounding this issue intensified following a case involving a transgender-identifying individual accessing female locker rooms in Virginia, raising concerns among parents and lawmakers. In response, Governor Glenn Youngkin ordered the state’s Board of Health to issue regulations prohibiting transgender-identifying males from competing in female sports and using intimate facilities designated for women. When asked in a debate if she would support or rescind this guidance, Spanberger refrained from giving a definitive answer, further fueling scrutiny of her position.

Earle-Sears responded to Spanberger’s comments by labeling her remarks a “word salad,” and criticized what she described as Spanberger’s evasive approach to the issue. White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller echoed this sentiment, suggesting that Spanberger’s response lacked clarity and coherence.

As the gubernatorial race unfolds, candidates are increasingly scrutinizing each other’s positions on sensitive topics such as gender identity in schools. Virginia has long been at the center of this debate, and the upcoming elections are expected to bring these issues to the forefront of voters’ minds.

In a statement responding to inquiries about the ongoing controversy, a spokesperson for Spanberger emphasized her commitment to child safety, asserting, “Abigail is a parent of three daughters in Virginia public schools and a former federal law enforcement officer who went after child predators.” The spokesperson added that Spanberger would prioritize the safety of Virginia’s children and work with law enforcement to address concerns regarding sex offenders.

As the campaign progresses, the handling of transgender policies will likely remain a pivotal topic, influencing voter opinions and candidate strategies in Virginia’s political arena.